Best seats for Broadway Show New York City

When in New York, attending a Broadway show is a must. Similarly, having the best seats on Broadway shows in New York City is critical to make the most of your show night! 

The seats make or break your Broadway experience. So, what are the best seats for Broadway shows? This article will provide all the information regarding the best seats in a theater musical.

On average, a Broadway show runs for 2 to 2.5 hours. Hence the seat you choose will determine your entire broadway experience.

Though there are more than 40 theaters on Broadway street in New York, they have similar layouts. Here is all the information you must know about the best place to sit in Broadway theater.

Types of seats at Broadway shows New York City

Broadway theaters typically offer several types of seats, including

Orchestra seats

These seats are located on the ground level of the theater and are considered the most desirable seats because they offer the closest proximity to the stage.

Mezzanine seats

These seats are located on the theater’s second level and are often divided into front and rear sections. 

Mezzanine seats offer a bird’s eye view of the stage and can be an excellent choice for those who want a broader production perspective.

Balcony seats

These seats are located on the third level of the theater and offer a panoramic view of the stage. 

Balcony seats can be affordable for theatergoers on a budget, but they can also feel far from the action.

Box seats

These seats are located on the sides of the theater and offer a more private viewing experience. 

Box seats are often sold as a group and can be an excellent choice for special occasions or VIP guests.

The availability of these types of seats may vary depending on the theater and the specific production. 

It’s always a good idea to check with the box office or online ticketing website for availability and pricing.

What are the best seats for a Broadway theater?

The best seats for a Broadway show depend on personal preferences and the specific theater. However, here are some general tips that can help you choose good seats:

Orchestra seats

These seats are closest to the stage and offer the most immersive experience. Aim for seats in the center section of the orchestra, as they provide the best view of the stage.

Due to their proximity to the stage, these are the most desirable and expensive tickets.

The best Orchestra seats is often a debate between the first few rows and those set further back. 

Consider sitting closer for a show with intimate moments and ballads to get the best view of the performers’ facial expressions and reactions.

Front Mezzanine

These seats are on the second level of the theater and offer an excellent overall view of the stage. 

They can be a good option if you prefer a slightly elevated view or want to see the show’s choreography.

Rear Mezzanine

These seats are on the third level of the theater and offer a panoramic view of the stage. 

They can be a good option to see the entire stage and all the action happening.

Ultimately, the best seats for a Broadway show will depend on your personal preferences and the specific product you are seeing.

Best seats to watch Broadway shows with kids

For shows with flashy dance numbers and giant set pieces (e.g.: Aladdin, Lion King), sitting farther back gives you a broader view of the action.

Seats 10-15 rows away will still feel close and instantly allow you to see more of the stage.

Almost every theater buff will recommend sitting close to the center – especially if it’s your first time seeing a show – these are the best seats in Broadway theater!

An important consideration when choosing Orchestra tickets is that the seating area needs to be more sloped.

This can make it difficult to see over guests seated before you. If this concerns you, choose seats in a close row or choose Balcony/Mezzanine seats.

We love Orchestra seats for their accessibility. 

This is especially true of the last few rows, where getting to and from the lobby is a breeze. 

Easy access to the lobby allows quick exits and shorter restroom and concession lines during intermission. 

Mezzanine vs. Balcony Seating

The most common alternatives to Orchestra seats are the Mezzanine and Balcony. 

These terms are often used interchangeably but mean different things at different theaters.

Mezzanine seats – these at Gershwin Theater – often hang over the Orchestra level

Mezzanine sections are elevated above the Orchestra and often hang over the lower seating area. 

Some Mezzanines extend far out over the Orchestra. This creates more obstructions in the lower level and closer – and better – views in the Mezzanine.

If you need help with where to sit, aim for seats near the front row in a center Mezzanine section.

This area is known for having the most comfortable sightlines and is popular among first-timers and veterans.

Balcony seating is similar to the Mezzanine in that the sections are elevated above the stage.

Balcony seats are the farthest away at most theaters and typically the cheapest Broadway tickets. 

These are usually excellent seats at theaters with a Balcony and no Mezzanine. At theaters with both tiers, Mezzanine seats are always the better seats.

You may see other terms on seating maps when searching for tickets. The most common among these is Dress Circle. 

These are similar to Mezzanine sections, as they are usually the first tier of elevated seating above the Orchestra.

Box Seats and More

Contemporary theaters and those that have been renovated have introduced more high-end seating options.

Box Seats/Suites are a premium seating option available at some venues. These are semi-private seating areas that are usually elevated. 

While most people think of these as being along the sides, it is becoming more common for them to span from side to side. 

This is one of the few places to find extra legroom in a theater. Some Box Seats areas include additional amenities such as tables and in-seat service.

A Pit section may be added in front of the Orchestra. In most cases, these are the closest seats to the stage.

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